John Hardy, a renowned jewelry brand, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with the launch of its Lovestruck collection. This new collection, debuting on Monday, marks a significant milestone as it features lab-grown diamonds for the first time in the brand’s history. Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell are collaborating on this project, contributing to both the design and John Hardy’s philanthropic efforts.
Collaboration Focused on Sustainability
Reed Krakoff, the creative chairman of John Hardy, highlighted the strong focus on sustainability shared by Eilish and O’Connell. He noted, “The connection was the idea of sustainability in luxury jewelry.” This common goal paved the way for a powerful collaboration. The emphasis on sustainability has been a part of John Hardy’s legacy, aligning with the brand’s conservationist roots.
Innovative Diamond Cuts and Reclaimed Metals
The Lovestruck collection incorporates four unique diamond cuts, each set in reclaimed precious metals. Krakoff emphasized the innovative approach to lab-grown diamonds, stating, “We aimed to create something that feels different in every way.” The collection seeks to capture the natural beauty of diamonds while showcasing their unique qualities.
- Lab-grown diamond settings
- Unique proprietary diamond cuts
- Use of reclaimed precious metals
- Production facilities powered by 100% renewable energy
Rethinking Diamond Presentation
Krakoff envisioned a fresh perspective on how diamonds can be integrated into everyday jewelry. By offering rings in various sizes and adjusting settings appropriately, the collection caters to diverse consumer needs. He remarked, “Mined diamonds are serious, but we wanted to create a more casual context.” This approach aims to redefine the perception of diamonds for modern consumers.
Business Growth Amidst a Brand Revival
Since Krakoff took the helm at John Hardy in 2022, the brand has seen significant growth. Wholesale sales have surged by over 50%, with key partnerships established with major retailers such as Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, and Neiman Marcus. Krakoff described this period as a pivotal moment for the brand, reinvigorating its offerings and engaging both new and returning customers.
Impressive Sales Growth
The average price range for John Hardy’s higher-end pieces falls between $20,000 and $100,000. This segment has experienced remarkable success, with year-over-year growth nearing 100%. Krakoff explained that customers seek high-end jewelry from brands that deliver quality and value, thus establishing John Hardy as a leader in luxury jewelry.
The Lovestruck collection and its collaboration with Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell represent a new chapter for John Hardy. By focusing on sustainable practices and innovative design, the brand aims to attract a modern audience while honoring its rich heritage. El-Balad will continue to follow this exciting development in the luxury jewelry market.
